Summary: We determined the effect of antioxidants and resistance training on bone mineral density of postmenopausal women. After 6 months, we observed a significant decrease in the lumbar spine BMD [bone mineral density] of the placebo group [who received fake supplements and did not do resistance training] while other groups remained stable. Antioxidants may offer protection against bone loss [equal to] resistance training.

Introduction: The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the effects of antioxidant supplements combined [with] resistance training on bone mineral density (BMD) in healthy elderly women.

Results: We observed a significant decrease in the placebo group for lumbar spine BMD (pre, 1.01 +/- 0.17 g/cm(2); post, 1.00 +/- 0.16 g/cm(2); P < 0.05 respectively) while it remained stable in all other groups. No changes were observed for femoral neck BMD.

Conclusions:

• Antioxidant vitamins may offer some protection against bone loss in the same extent as resistance exercise,

• Although combining both does not seem to produce additional effects.

Our results suggest to further investigate the impact of antioxidant supplements on the prevention of osteoporosis.